Stitcher’s guide
Our advent calendar is
stitched on 28-count
evenweave over two
threads of the fabric.
The design uses whole
stitches only in two
strands of thread, with
backstitch detail in one
strand. The number
pockets are worked using
soluble canvas and whole
stitches in two strands
of thread. This project is
suited to intermediate
stitchers with some
sewing experience.
Bright, fun and easy to stitch, our
beautiful folk-art calendar will add a burst
of colour to your home this December
By Lucie Heaton
1
Find the vertical centre of
your fabric by folding it in
half, then measure 14cm down
from the top edge to find your
starting point. Follow the arrows
on the chart to find its centre
and start stitching from here,
working your way outwards.
2
Work all the cross stitch over
two threads of the fabric
using two strands of cotton.
Fifteen different shades of
thread are used in this project,
so check the key as you stitch
to make sure you are always
working correctly.
3
Work the backstitch next
using one strand of red or
white stranded cotton.
4
Stitch the numbers onto
felt using soluble canvas
using two strands of cotton in a
colour of your choice (or follow
the image for guidance).
5
Carefully check over your
finished stitching and then
prepare it for making up – see
page 70 for instructions.
How to stitch the advent calendar
Threads
Stranded cotton as listed in the
key
Needle
Size 24 tapestry needle
Fabric
28-count navy evenweave
measuring 70x55cm (27½x21½in)
Felt in colours of your choice
measuring 10x10cm (4x4in)
14-count soluble canvas
Extras
Backing fabric
Wooden dowel rod
Ribbon for hanging
Shopping list
“Folk art is one of my
favourite styles, and the
fact that this design is
Christmas themed was
an added bonus!"
Lucie Heaton, designer
Advent calendar
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